Mutual Selection in Formal Recruitment: Not So Mutual? For PNMs and Parents.

[KSUViolet06]

We've been having this discussion in bits and pieces in other threads and I felt like it may be a good idea to start a thread about it, for the benefit of those participating in recruitment.

Often (because it's the message put out there by Panhellenics), PNMs go into recruitment thinking that mutual selection = they are "choosing which ones they want" and "deciding which chapters to cut."

They think that going into the process, the process is all about THEM and that THEY (the PNM) are in control.

That is NOT the case.

In the opening rounds, it's the chapters making the majority of the selection decisions. So while you may feel that on the first day you "didn't click with XYZ" and don't want to go back there, it's really not up to you or focused on what you want.

The balance of selection weighs more in the favor of the chapters than it does on you as the PNM.

Selection tends to be more mutual in the actual BID MATCHING process (at most schools) than it is during recruitment.

It's important for PNMs to know this, in the event that they get their schedules for the 2nd day and face the inevitable "these aren't the ones I wanted" moment and contemplate withdrawing from recruitment. I feel like you're more prepared and in a place to keep an open mind if this is discussed up front.

Thoughts, flames, etc. are appreciated, especially if anyone thinks I'm wrong or totally off base.